Problem 31
Question
Plexiglas (PMMA) is a polymer of (a) methyl methacrylate (b) methyl acrylate (c) acrylic acid (d) none of these
Step-by-Step Solution
Verified Answer
The polymer of Plexiglass is (a) methyl methacrylate.
1Step 1: Understanding the Options
We are asked to identify the polymer of Plexiglass, which is scientifically known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). We need to match this chemical name with one of the given options.
2Step 2: Analyzing Option (a)
Option (a) is methyl methacrylate. From the full form of PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), we can see that it is derived from methyl methacrylate.
3Step 3: Analyzing Other Options
Options (b), (c), and (d) are not directly related to PMMA. Methyl acrylate and acrylic acid are different monomers used for other types of polymers. "None of these" as an option is invalid because we have already found a correct match.
4Step 4: Selecting the Correct Answer
Based on our analysis, option (a) methyl methacrylate is the correct choice for the monomer of Plexiglas (PMMA).
Key Concepts
PlexiglassMethyl methacrylatePMMAChemical structureMonomer
Plexiglass
Plexiglass, also known as acrylic glass, is a transparent and durable material that is quite popular for various applications. It is used in everything from aircraft windows to aquariums.
Its appeal lies in being lightweight, shatter-resistant, and cost-effective compared to traditional glass.
Plexiglass can be found in many objects around us:
Its appeal lies in being lightweight, shatter-resistant, and cost-effective compared to traditional glass.
Plexiglass can be found in many objects around us:
- Window panes
- Lenses
- Screens
- Signage
Methyl methacrylate
Methyl methacrylate (MMA) is the key monomer used in the production of Plexiglass. It is an organic compound that serves as the building block for PMMA.
This clear liquid is known for its high reactivity due to the presence of double bonds in its chemical structure.
Methyl methacrylate's role is crucial in forming the macromolecular structure of PMMA, making it indispensable in the fabrication of acrylic glass products.
This clear liquid is known for its high reactivity due to the presence of double bonds in its chemical structure.
Methyl methacrylate's role is crucial in forming the macromolecular structure of PMMA, making it indispensable in the fabrication of acrylic glass products.
PMMA
Polymethyl methacrylate, abbreviated as PMMA, is the scientific name for Plexiglass.
This polymer is obtained by polymerizing methyl methacrylate monomers. Due to its transparency and excellent optical properties, PMMA is favored in industries that value visual clarity.
This polymer is obtained by polymerizing methyl methacrylate monomers. Due to its transparency and excellent optical properties, PMMA is favored in industries that value visual clarity.
- Automotive lighting
- Architectural glazing
- Medical devices
Chemical structure
The chemical structure of PMMA consists of repeating units derived from methyl methacrylate.
Its basic repeating unit can be described by the molecular formula \[(C_5H_8O_2)_n\]where \(n\) represents the number of repeating units, which can vary depending on the intended use of the material.
Its basic repeating unit can be described by the molecular formula \[(C_5H_8O_2)_n\]where \(n\) represents the number of repeating units, which can vary depending on the intended use of the material.
Key Characteristics
- Strong carbon backbone
- Flexible yet durable
- Resistant to UV light
Monomer
A monomer is a small molecule that can bind chemically with other molecules to form a polymer.
In the context of PMMA, methyl methacrylate acts as the monomer.
In the context of PMMA, methyl methacrylate acts as the monomer.
Characteristics of Monomers
- Simple, singular units
- Forms polymers through processes like polymerization
- Can create diverse structures by varying monomer types
Other exercises in this chapter
Problem 29
Soft drinks and baby feeding bottles are generally made up of (a) polyamide (b) polystyrene (c) polyester (d) polyurea
View solution Problem 30
\(\mathrm{F}_{2} \mathrm{C}=\mathrm{CF}_{2}\) is monomer of (a) Teflon (b) glyptal (c) Nylon-6 (d) Buna-S
View solution Problem 32
Dimethyl phthalate and ethylene glycol react to form (a) Nylon-6 (b) Nylon-6,6 (c) Dacron (d) neoprene
View solution Problem 33
Which of the following is not an example of addition polymer? (a) polystyrene (b) nylon (c) PVC (d) propylene
View solution